Ofsted’s early years inspections and regulatory work will be managed directly from April 2017, when the current contracts end.

At present 2 companies, Tribal and Prospects, undertake early years inspections on Ofsted’s behalf. These contracts run until 31 March 2017.

Bringing early years inspection under direct management means that Ofsted will have full control over the selection, training and management of inspectors, and complete oversight of the quality of inspection.

Since 2010, our two early years inspection service providers have successfully delivered inspection work for Ofsted. As these contracts come to an end this is the right time to consider carefully what our next steps should be. We have decided that early years inspection should be brought in line with schools and further education and skills, with Ofsted directly managing all inspections.

With our experience of bringing schools and further education inspections under our control, we are confident that we can manage this transition smoothly.

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